Veterans, soldiers receive year round Via Rail discount.

OTTAWA – Veterans, Canadian Forces personnel and their families can
now count on receiving a 25-per-cent discount off their Via Rail fares year
round.

The announcement was made Monday in front of a group of veterans at the
Canadian War Museum by Veteran Affairs Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Defence
Minister Peter MacKay and Via Rail officials.

“Our veterans and their families have made great sacrifices so that we can
live in a democratic and free country,” Blackburn said. “Today, only days
before the start of Veterans’ Week, is the most fitting time to offer them this
tangible and important proof of respect and gratitude we owe them.”

The discounted fares apply to all classes of VIA service, including economy,
business and sleeper. The discount off the best available fare has no route or
date restrictions.

“These reduced fares mean our brave men and women in uniform and their
families can travel and enjoy more of the country they serve and defend each
day,” MacKay added.

The discount was effective Monday. Under the plan, current Canadian Forces
members and veterans can be accompanied by up to five additional family members,
provided they travel on the same trains, dates and in the same classes.